Turpel, Aki-Kwe/Mary Ellen

Aboriginal Peoples and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: Contradictions and Challenges

This article discusses the legitimacy of using human rights discourse in an Aboriginal context. The author begins by examining differences between Aboriginal and Western cultures in reference to the notion of individual human rights within a collective society. The article also reviews some Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms jurisprudence regarding Aboriginal rights and demonstrates how these cases focus on the notion of individual rights.

Human Security and Aboriginal Women in Canada

Drawing on interviews and focus group discussions conducted across Canada, this report explores the connections amongst Aboriginal women, protest, and human security. The report begins with a literature review of gender and human security, gender and protest, Aboriginal women and protest, constitutionally-protected rights of Aboriginal peoples, and Bill C-36 and Aboriginal protest. The report highlights the leadership role that Aboriginal women play in protest activities concerning the protection of the environment, Aboriginal lifestyle, and culture.